The New York Yankees face a challenging start to the 2025 season, with general manager Brian Cashman confirming that starting pitcher Clarke Schmidt will begin the year on the injured list due to a minor shoulder issue. This marks the third injury in the Yankees' rotation, which had initially been considered one of the strongest in the league. Both Gerrit Cole and Luis Gil are already sidelined, leaving the Yankees in a precarious position.

With Schmidt out, the rotation is set to include Max Fried, Carlos Rodón, Marcus Stroman, Will Warren, and Carlos Carrasco. The team hopes that the depth and performances of these pitchers will carry the Yankees as they aim to contend for a World Series title. Despite the setbacks, Vegas odds still favor the Yankees as the American League's top contenders, yet the injuries have certainly affected their momentum.

Clarke Schmidt, the New York Yankees' right-hander, will start the season on the injured list due to a shoulder issue, as confirmed by GM Brian Cashman. This injury adds him to a growing list of unavailable starters, including Gerrit Cole, who is out for the season after Tommy John surgery, and Luis Gil, expected to miss at least two months with a lat injury. Schmidt had a solid 2022 season, boasting a 2.85 ERA in 16 starts, but struggled this spring with a minor shoulder injury, limiting his preparation time.

Despite his injury, Cashman noted that Schmidt is improving and should not miss significant time. Another right-hander, Carlos Carrasco, is poised to seize the opportunity as a non-roster invitee, while rookie Will Warren is likely to fill the final rotation spot, despite a challenging previous season. In addition, Ian Hamilton will also begin the season on the injured list after a recent infection.

The AL East division has become a battleground of uncertainty with injuries hitting key players hard. The New York Yankees, once favorites, are reeling from the season-ending loss of ace Gerrit Cole, while slugger Giancarlo Stanton is sidelined for most of April. With Luis Gil also on the injured list, their chances of defending the AL crown appear slim. Projections indicate a dip to 86 wins, with the Boston Red Sox close behind at 85. The Baltimore Orioles and Toronto Blue Jays follow, showcasing an evenly matched division where every team is expected to finish .500 or better.

Health issues plague several teams, including the Red Sox, where Lucas Giolito and Rafael Devers have injury concerns. Meanwhile, the Orioles are struggling with multiple players on the injured list, impacting their pitching staff. The Tampa Bay Rays, however, have emerged relatively unscathed, known for maximizing the potential of prospects. The Blue Jays are cautiously optimistic with minor injuries, while they face pressure for a successful season as key players are on the brink of free agency.

The New York Yankees face a significant challenge ahead as ace Gerrit Cole undergoes Tommy John surgery, eliminating a crucial part of their pitching rotation. With past injuries indicating a heightened risk for Cole, the Yankees were somewhat prepared, but losing him alongside Luis Gil has placed them in a precarious situation.

Max Fried, recently acquired, must step up as the new ace, followed by Clarke Schmidt and Carlos Rodon. The Yankees now find themselves relying on depth and untested talent, including Will Warren, who has impressed this spring. The organization may explore trades or free-agent signings as they navigate this tumultuous period.

Gerrit Cole of the New York Yankees is set to undergo Tommy John surgery, a decision made after consultations with Dr. Neal ElAttrache. This surgery will effectively end Cole's 2025 season before it starts, leaving the Yankees in a precarious situation as they aim to defend their American League title. Cole's struggles began in spring training, where he pitched poorly against the Minnesota Twins and expressed significant elbow pain, prompting further evaluation.

This unfortunate turn of events follows a difficult year in which Cole dealt with nerve irritation rather than opting for surgery. The Yankees are now left without their ace and also face the absence of Luis Gil, who is sidelined for at least three months due to a lat strain. The rotation now relies on Max Fried, Carlos Rodon, and Clarke Schmidt, with Marcus Stroman potentially sliding into a key role.